Balochistan is receiving a higher PSDP share than Punjab as M-8 motorway under CPEC advances, with remaining sections targeted for completion by 2026.
Senate of Pakistan was informed on Friday that Balochistan remains a top development priority for the federal government and is receiving a proportionately higher share under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP).
Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry told the House that when development spending is calculated relative to population, Balochistan’s PSDP allocation exceeds that of Punjab, reflecting the government’s focus on addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps in the province.
M-8 Motorway Progress Under CPEC Western Alignment
Responding to a question raised by Senator Jan Muhammad regarding the M-8 motorway, the minister said the approximately 890-kilometre highway is a key component of the western alignment of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and is aimed at improving connectivity, trade, and economic activity in Balochistan.
He informed the Senate that several sections of the motorway have already been completed and are operational. However, work is still under way on the remaining stretches, particularly the Hoshab–Awaran and Awaran–Naal sections.
Completion Target and Challenges
According to the minister, the government is targeting completion of the remaining 314 kilometres of the M-8 motorway by December 2026, subject to the availability of funds and improvement in the security situation.
He acknowledged that the project has faced delays due to security challenges, limited working hours, and insufficient release of development funds. Concerns related to the condition or maintenance of completed road segments, he added, can be taken up with the relevant authorities.
Government Reaffirms Development Commitment
Reiterating the federal government’s commitment, Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry said sustained investment in infrastructure, road connectivity, and economic opportunities remains central to the government’s development strategy for Balochistan.
